Sumanasa Foundation

Svanubhava is a flagship initiative of the Sumanasa Foundation that initially began as a festival to support students of performing arts. It involves specially crafted concerts for students to showcase their talent. Svanubhava evolved into an initiative focused on art appreciation and audience development. It provides a platform for artists from different art forms to engage with each other and collaborate.

Chennai Kalai Theru Vizha, previously known as Urur Olcott Kuppam Vizha, is a community-driven art and music festival held in Chennai. It aims to bridge cultural divides and promote the healing power of art. The festival seeks to introduce art and artists to new audiences and diverse environments, fostering communication and understanding across different communities. By breaking away from the exclusivity often associated with art, the festival encourages growth and inclusivity. The festival has been held in various venues and public spaces, engaging with different neighbourhoods and bringing art to the masses.

Kalaikoodam was established as an art school with the aim of fostering a cross-community environment and inviting people from all backgrounds to learn various art forms. The first Kalaikoodam was launched in Thiruvalluvar Nagar, Besant Nagar. The initiative brought together individuals from the technology field to learn Parai (a traditional drumming art) alongside fisherfolk, while local children enjoyed learning Carnatic vocal music and Bharatanatyam. The objective of Kalaikoodam is to make arts inclusive and accessible to everyone, with a focus not only on learning the art form itself but also on creating a space for conversations between students and teachers about art, society, and more.

The Art on Wheels project is organized by Vidyavanam School in Anaikatti. The project aims to provide regular opportunities for children to engage in various art forms. Every Sunday, children from nearby villages are transported to a village square, where they actively participate in different art forms for two hours. This initiative aims to make art more accessible to underprivileged children and integrate it into their community activities.

An initiative to support children from economically disadvantaged families who have a keen interest in learning Carnatic music or Bharatanatyam. Over the course of four years, the foundation has provided financial assistance to 12 students, enabling them to pursue their studies in Mridangam, Violin, Vocal, and Bharatanatyam. The support includes a monthly stipend that covers their accommodation, food, and teacher's fees. The foundation has extended its support to students who have received training from other music and dance institutes.

Maadhyam serves as a platform to connect prospective students interested in learning Carnatic music with qualified teachers in India. The foundation facilitates the process by directing queries received through their website to the respective teachers. The details regarding the class schedule, fees, and payment methods are mutually decided between the teacher and the student or parent. Sumanasa provides this service free of cost.